M94 | NGC 4736 | Spiral Galaxy | Canes Venatici | 17,300,000 Light Years Away
Messier 94, also known as the Cat’s Eye Galaxy, is a spiral galaxy located in the constellation Canes Venatici. Discovered by Pierre Méchain in 1781 and later included in Charles Messier’s catalog, Messier 94 is situated approximately 16 million light-years away from Earth. Noteworthy for its bright central region and a distinctive ring of star formation, Messier 94 is often classified as a barred spiral galaxy.
One of the notable features of Messier 94 is its inner ring of intense star formation, known as a starburst ring, which surrounds the galaxy’s bright nucleus. The ring is a site of vigorous star formation, producing massive and young stars. Observations of Messier 94 provide valuable insights into the processes of star formation, the dynamics of galactic structures, and the interactions between different components within spiral galaxies.
Messier 94 is a popular target for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers due to its relatively bright appearance and striking features. Its intricate structure, including the prominent starburst ring, makes it an intriguing subject for detailed observations. The study of Messier 94 adds to our understanding of the complexities of spiral galaxies, offering a glimpse into the cosmic processes that shape these captivating astronomical objects.